NYC Family Magic Show or Kid Show? Which One is Right For You?
What's the difference between a family magic show and a children's magic show in NYC?
New York City has never had more magic shows than it does now, and for fans of magic that's incredibly exciting!
If you want to take your kids to an NYC magic show (and who doesn't?) you're probably wondering how to find the one that's right for your group. Should you look for a "Kids Magic Show in NYC" or should you look for a "Family Magic Show in NYC?"
But the even bigger question is: What is the difference?
Yes, there is a HUGE difference!
Let's go over these two types of magic shows in NYC, and compare.
A Family Magic Show in NYC:
A family magic show in NYC is going to be an experience that is truly for everyone. Okay, maybe the cutoff will be around age 5, because younger than that, it gets kind of hard for them to follow the logic paths that magic requires, in order to be amazing.
But the point is, grandparents and grandkids (or even parents and kids) have wildly different worldviews these days. Grandparents just cannot wrap their minds around TikTok and Instagram... but the kids are on those platforms all day from the youngest age. Their ideas about the world itself are vastly different. So, even when grandparents and their grandkids watch a movie or TV show together, they are essentially watching 2 different shows, and having 2 different experiences.
With magic, all that changes. Suddenly the grandparents, parents, and kids are all experiencing the exact same thing: How is that kid flying in the air? Where did that burned up sneaker go? How is that handkerchief dancing all around the stage by itself?
Also, in a family magic show, the script and comedy will be more sophisticated, subtle, and nuanced - something that even the most jaded tweens and teens can appreciate and respond to. You won't find any political or risqué material in a family show, however.
The most marvelous aspect of this is, after the show, the grandparents and parents have something way more interesting to talk to the kids about other than, "How was school this week?"
In short - a family magic show is something that the entire family, from age 5 on up through tweens and teens, and even their parents and grandparents, will all not only "get" but will love to be a part of. A family magic show is one of the very best outings a multi-generational group can experience together. It not only entertains all the members of these groups, but actively bonds them with shared memories and a deeply resonant experience of wonder.
A Kid's Magic Show in NYC:
In a children's magic show, the emphasis is on entertaining a room full of youngsters. The grandparents and parents might be standing in the back of the room, half on their phones and half watching... But the adults are not active participants in the magic show or really paying that much attention.
In a kid's magic show, the performers will be emphasizing routines using colorful props and slapstick comedy, with little nuance.
Any tweens or teens will likely be embarrassed to be at an absolute "kid's magic show" - so it's not recommended to take them to a "kid's magic show."
Kid's magic shows often feature clowns, or adults acting like clowns. Silly costumes, the magician acting dumb, the magician turning around and around trying to find something that's clearly in his hand already - these are the hallmarks of a "kid's magic show."
Is the Broadway Magic Hour a family magic show, or a kid's magic show? The Broadway Magic Hour is a FAMILY MAGIC SHOW, performed by two of NYC's most beloved magicians: Jim Vines (North American Champion of Magic, as seen on Penn & Teller: Fool Us), and Carl Mercurio (veteran nationwide performer who regularly appears at the Mohegan Sun.)
Together, Jim and Carl take their audience on a truly magical and hilarious 1-hour theatrical experience featuring magic, comedy, mind-reading and grand illusion. The show takes place on weekend afternoons at the historic Broadway Comedy Club in Times Square.
In summary, while NYC has a dizzying array of live entertainment choices to pick from, a family magic show such as the long-running Broadway Magic Hour in Times Square is the type of family entertainment that has become increasingly hard to find.
If you ask a kid, "Hey, want to go to a museum and see dinosaur bones?" they're likely to shrug and keep playing their video game. If you ask that same kid, "Do you wanna go to a magic show?" the kid will yell "YEAAHHHH!" and turn off the video game.
And the best part? The teens, tweens, and other older folks in your house will love the family magic show just as much as the kids. And that's what we call real magic.
ABOUT THE BROADWAY MAGIC HOUR FAMILY MAGIC SHOW: The Broadway Magic Hour widely recognized as New York City's #1 family friendly magic show, runs on weekend afternoons at the legendary Broadway Comedy Club at 318 W. 53rd Street (between 8th & 9th Avenues). Convenient to all public transportation, and with paid parking directly across the street, it's not only easy to get to, but is also in an area alive with restaurants, shops, and other fun things to do.
The Broadway Magic Hour is 1-hour in duration. Seating is general admission, so it's recommended that you arrive at least a half-hour early to secure your seats. Ordering tickets ahead of time online is essential, as the show is extremely popular and often sells out.
🎟️ Check the show schedule and reserve your seats: https://broadwaymagichour.com
